How to clean terrazzo tiles?

March 13, 2025

Cleaning terrazzo tiles is essential to maintaining their timeless beauty and durability. Known for their elegance and versatility, terrazzo tiles can last for decades with proper care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple yet effective steps to clean and protect your terrazzo tiles, keeping them looking pristine for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with daily upkeep or stubborn stains, these tips will help you preserve the charm and functionality of your terrazzo floors and surfaces.

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Maintenance Advice

Terrazzo is a dense material, offering exceptional practicality. However, since its components - natural stone and cement - are porous, sealing is necessary. Not all terrazzo tiles require sealing; this depends on the specific material and installation method. For instance, tiles polished on-site may not need sealing. Always consult your supplier or installer for guidance.
To prevent staining and water penetration, apply two coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme sealer: one before and one after installation. In wet areas like shower walls or wet room floors, reapply the sealant every 12 months. For other applications, re-sealing every 18 months is advisable. High-traffic areas may require more frequent re-sealing to maintain appearance. In residential settings, placing mats at entrances can reduce wear from foot traffic.
Regularly sweep to remove dust and debris, then mop with a neutral cleaner such as Fila Cleaner Pro. Promptly dry any spills, especially acidic or bleach-based liquids, as they can compromise the sealant. For deeper cleaning, use Fila PS87 Pro diluted appropriately to eliminate stubborn dirt.

Removing Stains from Terrazzo Tiles

Despite their durability, terrazzo tiles can stain if spills like wine, tea, coffee, tomato sauce, lemon juice, or oil are not promptly cleaned. To remove stains, deep clean the tiles using Fila PS87 Pro diluted 1:5 with water, scrubbing with a white emulsifying pad. Repeat as necessary to achieve the desired result.
If stains persist, consider removing the existing sealant with Fila SR95 Stain-Remover, then deep clean the tiles again with Fila PS87 Pro. Once the tiles are completely dry, re-seal them with Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme. Ensure adequate drying time between each step. If stains remain after these steps, terrazzo tiles can be sanded and polished. Consult a professional before undertaking this process.

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When Should Terrazzo Tiles Be Re-Sealed?

For cement-based terrazzo tiles, re-sealing is generally recommended every 12-18 months. In wet areas, such as shower walls or wet room floors, re-seal every 12 months, maintaining them periodically with Fila PS87 Pro to limit limescale buildup.
If your terrazzo tiles were correctly installed and sealed - with a coat of sealant before and after grouting - and grout residue was removed with an appropriate cleaner, re-sealing should be straightforward. To achieve optimal results, remove old sealant with Fila SR95 Stain-Remover, deep-clean with Fila PS87 Pro,
and once completely dry, apply two coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme. In areas not subject to constant water contact, such as hallways or kitchens, a final coat of Fila Matt can add sheen and help maintain the tiles' condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove stains from terrazzo tiles?

Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining. For stubborn stains, use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth. For deeper stains, consult a professional cleaner or use a suitable stain remover.

Can terrazzo tiles be restored if they are heavily stained?

Yes! If stains persist after cleaning, terrazzo tiles can be sanded and polished by a professional to restore their original appearance.

Can I use acidic cleaners on terrazzo tiles?

No. Avoid acidic or bleach-based cleaners as they can damage the sealant. Always use pH-neutral products like Fila Cleaner Pro.

How often should terrazzo tiles be deep cleaned?

Deep clean your terrazzo tiles every few months or as needed, depending on foot traffic. Use a gentle cleaner and avoid abrasive pads or brushes.

How do I bring back the shine to dull terrazzo tiles?

Clean the surface thoroughly, then polish with a terrazzo-safe polishing product. If the tiles are still dull, consider professional polishing for a like-new finish.